Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake

Introduction

The Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its fresh strawberries and creamy vanilla frosting. This cake combines moist layers of vanilla-flavored cake with a sweet strawberry filling. It’s perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or just a treat for yourself!

Why Make This Recipe

Making this Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake is a great way to impress your friends and family. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers yet offers a stunning visual appeal and delicious flavor. The fresh strawberries provide a burst of flavor, while the fluffy vanilla buttercream adds a creamy smoothness. This cake is not only tasty but also a feast for the eyes!

How to Make Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake

Making this cake is an enjoyable process, combining simple ingredients into a beautiful product. Follow the steps below to create your own Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup unsalted butter (for frosting)
3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
2-4 tablespoons milk or cream
Pinch of salt
Fresh whole strawberries for decoration

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes cool, prepare the strawberry filling by combining diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Let it cool completely.
For the vanilla buttercream frosting, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and salt, then mix in milk or cream until it’s the desired consistency.
Once the cakes are cool, level them if needed. Place one layer on your serving plate and spread half the strawberry filling over it, leaving a border. Spread a layer of buttercream over the filling.
Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream. Decorate with any remaining strawberry filling or fresh strawberries as desired.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.

How to Serve Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake

Serve slices of the Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake on a pretty plate. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra delicious treat.

How to Store Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. If you want to prolong its life, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container before freezing.

Tips to Make Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in your batter and frosting.
Use fresh strawberries for the filling to enhance the flavor of the cake.
Level your cake layers for an even appearance before frosting.
Don’t rush the cooling process; a fully cooled cake will hold together better when sliced.

Variation

You can add a twist to this cake by incorporating lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing flavor. Another idea is to substitute raspberries or blueberries for the strawberries to create a berry medley cake.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Fresh strawberries are best, but if you use frozen ones, ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

Q: How can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Q: Can I make the cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best taste and texture.

Now you’re all set to make your own Strawberry Vanilla Dream Cake. Enjoy baking and indulging in this scrumptious dessert!